Interim report a study of danazol for the treatment of endometriosis

Ninety-six infertile women with laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis received danazol (800 mg daily) for 6 months. Despite their prevalence, side effects generally were tolerable and did not contraindicate use of the drug. The mean resolution of peritoneal endometriosis, measured in 44 patients, was 63%. However, individual responses varied considerably. The mean resolution of ovarian endometriosis in 28 patients was 45%. Resolution of less than 1 cm involvement (57%) was similar to that of peritoneal endometriosis, but for more extensive ovarian disease it was only 37% to 40%. Preoperative use of danazol facilitated surgical removal of disease and probably reduced the risk of postoperative adhesions. Pregnancy rates, though reported, are not analyzed because of the brevity of follow-up to date.